Star On The Rise: Cleve Nice hopes to jump-start music career

Every artiste has a story to tell, and for up-and-comer Cleve Nice, his tale of determination has led him to believe his dreams though difficult are not unattainable.

The artiste, given name Cleveland Wilson, migrated to the US from Central Village in Spanish Town at age four.

He grew up with his father in Springfield, Massachusetts where he was exposed to reggae and dancehall music.

Although he developed a love and appreciation for the Jamaican culture, he had his sights set on becoming a rapper.

He had started making plans to jump-start his music career at age 21, when he was arrested and charged with drug possession.

Wilson spent some years in prison, where he learnt that despite living in the US for most of his life, he was not an official citizen.

Based on the charges, Wilson was eventually deported to Jamaica. He explained that his crimes violated immigration laws and he was sent back to Jamaica in 2013.

In 2013, then 28 and with nothing to his name, Wilson returned to an island he only knew of through stories.

That did not stop Wilson from going after his dreams. Having come home to the 'mecca' of music in Jamaica, the entertainer decided he would use his deportation as a catalyst for his music.

He started fusing reggae and dancehall with rap and believes he has found a formula that is not only unique but one he believes can lead him to the successful music career he hopes for.

"I came here not knowing what I was getting myself into but I already know that no matter where you are in the world, as long as you're strong and independent and you put out good music, you can make it," he said pointing out that he has faced his fair share of doubters. "People will try to push their fears on you so they will tell you, 'no don't do it' because they're scared of it. But I'm not that person. Music on a whole is hard and it particularly harder doing rap in Jamaica. I have to be strong and confident in myself. Everywhere you go in life you will have people that are going to tell you no and will give you reasons why you shouldn't."

Wilson said the latter has motivated him 10 times over to pursue his dreams harder.

"My songs have like a reggae rap vibe going on with a little 'dancehall-ish'," he said. "As of right now I have a single out called Bam Bam where we get in touch with Sister Nancy's team and were able to sample Bam Bam. I put a rap riddim on it but it has a reggae vibe. I'm getting good feedback on it."

Cleve Nice hopes to work with the likes of Vybz Kartel, Govana, Sean Paul, Rygin King and Jada Kingdom in the future.